Florida forward Will Yeguete, out since Feb. 5 because of a knee injury, is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation and could return to the Gators’ lineup as early as March 2.

Yeguete, a 6-7 junior from France, had arthroscopic surgery Feb. 8 and hopes to return for the final three regular-season games. Coach Billy Donovan said such a rapid return is “a possibility” but “not a guarantee.”

“I’m really excited, but I’m taking my time and making sure I’m back,” Yeguete said this week via the school’s website. “So far, everything is good. They tell me I’m ahead (of schedule), but I’m just going to go day by day, doing more and more every day. If my knee responds -- and does not swell up -- we’re going to add more stuff.

“We’ll see. It’s just good to know I have a chance to be back.”

Although Yeguete averages only 6.0 points and 6.3 rebounds, he is an integral part of the fifth-ranked Gators’ rotation. He’s the team’s best interior defender, a glue guy who adds toughness and selflessness to the lineup.

A return is even more important to Yeguete, who missed the Gators’ run to the Elite Eight last year after breaking his foot in late February.